Getty Images Transforms Iconic Watermark Into Support for Global Water Issues on World Water Day

Getty Images, a world leader in visual communication, today released a unique collection of images – Watermarks for Water – kicking off an initiative that aims to help raise awareness and funds for the global water crisis by transforming the iconic Getty Images watermark.

When a collection image is licensed at www.watermarksforwater.com, the watermark that highlights the global water crisis is removed and 10% of proceeds go directly to charity: water, an organization that brings clean and safe drinking water to people in developing countries.

“At Getty Images, we believe in moving the world with images. Water is one of the most essential elements in our lives, so on World Water Day this year, we’re kicking off a movement to help bring awareness to and raise funds for the global water crisis,” said Getty Images Chief Operating Officer Craig Peters.

The Watermarks for Water collection is comprised of more than 300 images, shot by some of the world’s best photographers, that highlight the plight of clean drinking water. While the majority of images are from the Getty Images celebrated creative collections, select editorial photographers such as Brent Stirton and Tom Stoddart have contributed images to the cause. On March 22 – World Water Day – to kick off Watermarks for Water, 25 images from the collection will be on display for purchase at the Watermarks for Water Exhibition at 45 Lispenard Street in New York City, with all proceeds benefiting charity: water.

“One of the things that struck us the most when working with Getty Images on this campaign is that more people die from drinking impure water than from war,” said Liz Taylor, Chief Creative Officer of FCB Chicago. “That insight led us to take one of Getty Images’ most recognizable assets – the watermark – and flip the idea on its head: What if, by removing watermarks, we could start a global movement to bring clean water to those around the world who lack it?”

From the Watermarks for Water microsite, people will have the option to either license an image or share it on social media. Each image shared socially will retain its watermark along with a compelling fact about challenges surrounding clean drinking water. There will also be a homepage takeover, a first for the brand, on the Getty Images website that will place Watermarks for Water on the homepage for the day.

“Every person on this planet should have access to clean drinking water,” said Bilal Zaidi, Director of Brand Partnerships at charity: water. “We’re excited that Getty Images is joining us to provide clean and safe drinking water to people in need, and helping to raise awareness around the world water crisis.”

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